Paying for maintenance is a regular part of owning a car. But a new study from AAA cited at the end of this article found that when it comes to unexpected vehicle repairs, 1 in 3 U.S. drivers can’t afford the bill. The average vehicle repair bill is $500-$600, and that cost can increase significantly for unexpected breakdowns.

According to previous AAA research, a third of U.S. drivers skip or delay recommended repair services for their vehicle. Neglecting vehicle maintenance can reduce your car’s fuel economy, and also increases the chance of unexpected car troubles. In 2016, AAA responded to nearly 32 million stranded drivers.

What can drivers do?

Prevention is key in staving off car troubles; putting off maintenance leaves a vehicle more vulnerable to mechanical failure.

AAA recommends the following tips to help vehicle owners avoid breakdowns:

Follow your vehicle manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule. Regular upkeep is the best way to ensure your car is running at its optimum.